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At mid-1969 the population of Southwark was approximately 295,000; it was
estimated there were 65,000 children aged 16 and under, and 50,000 people aged 60 and
over. This means approximately 180,000 were therefore between the ages of 16 and 60,
or 60% of the population, who did not have the opportunity of a routine health check.
As a logical extension of the introduction of "well-women" clinics, and advisory
clinics for the over-60's, the Council decided to carry out a pilot health survey of the
general public of the Borough aged between 16 and 60. However, before this decision was
taken, much preparatory work was necessary. In 1965, following the formation of the
new London Borough of Southwark, it was decided to set up advisory committees to
assist in the formulation of health policies for this complex area, which comprised three
former Metropolitan Boroughs and parts of two former London County Council Health
Divisions and some dozen hospitals, including Guy's, the Maudsley and a large part of the
catchment area of King's College Hospital. The Advisory Committees were composed of
representatives of the local general practitioners and hospital consultants—the committees
covered such fields as psychiatry, geriatrics, gynaecology, etc. In addition, advice was
given by Professor Anderson, of King's College Hospital, and Professor Butterfield of
Guy's Hospital. Informal talks were also held with the then Ministry of Health.
It was decided that the best method of carrying out the survey was by means of a
mobile clinic, and approval for this project was given under the Health Visitor and Social
Work (Training) Act, 1962.
The Survey
The survey consists, for persons aged 16—60 years, of:—
(1) A social history, normally taken by the health visitor before the patient's visit
to the clinic, and a medical history, normally taken by the clinic nurse
immediately prior to the medical examination. These histories are taken on
special forms which were designed after full consultation with the Advisory
Committees mentioned previously.
(2) A series of tests —
Haemoglobin estimation (under 80% was considered as a disability).
Blood pressure
Urine testing (Labstix)
Vision (acuity 6/12 or less with or without glasses was considered a disability)
Measurement of height and weight (more than 10% above or below ideal
weight for sex, age and height according to standard tables was considered as
a disability)
For women over 25 there is a full gynaecological examination and a cervical
smear.
Arrangements have been made for all blood specimens and abnormal urine
specimens to be tested at local hospitals; there is full co-operation with the
hospitals in this matter.
(3) A comprehensive general medical examination by the clinic doctor, and
(4) X-ray of chest—attenders are referred to the frequent regular sessions of the
South-East London Mass X-ray Service.
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